Palawan Travel Guide: Where to Go, How to Get Around (Checked Oct 2026)

How this guide is built: we compile operator timetables, government and park notices, and booking-platform listings. Each figure names its source and the month we checked it. Nothing here is first-hand.

Figures marked "secondary" or "as listed on 12Go" come from schedule databases or booking platforms; confirm them with the operator or at the counter before you travel.

Palawan by area

Area	Getting there	Key fee or rule	Source, checked Oct 2026	Detail page
Puerto Princesa	Nonstop from Manila, about 1 h 15 min to 1 h 40 min	Underground River needs a permit; daily visitor cap	Reported by FlyTeam (OAG data); Underground River park advisory	Puerto Princesa Underground River
El Nido	Van from Puerto Princesa about 5 hours, or Cebgo from Clark or Cebu	Eco-tourism fee PHP 400 from outside Palawan	12Go; Cebu Pacific help center; Provincial Tourism Office	Puerto Princesa to El Nido
Port Barton	Van from Puerto Princesa 3.5 to 4 hours	Environmental fee: PHP 200 on one tour listing, PHP 50 once per stay in one guide	12Go; Tiu Boat Tours listing on Tikigo; reported by Van Hire Palawan	Port Barton
Coron	Flights to Busuanga from Clark or Cebu; 2GO from Manila, about 13 hours	Environmental fee about PHP 200 per adult	Reported by FlyTeam; 2GO; Brigada News (2023)	How to get to Coron
Balabac	Tour van from Puerto Princesa about 5 to 6 hours, then boat	Registration at Buliluyan Port	ATX Travel and Tours (operator)	Balabac

Getting to Palawan

Four airports have scheduled flights: Puerto Princesa, El Nido (Lio), Busuanga for Coron and San Vicente. The 2026 change that older guides miss is the move of turboprop flights from NAIA to Clark on Mar 29, 2026, which both Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines announced. AirSWIFT also stopped flying under its own name; Cebgo has run its flights since Jul 1, 2026 (Philippine News Agency).

How to get to Palawan: flights from Manila, Clark and Cebu, plus 2GO ferries.
Palawan airports: the four airports and their transfers to town.
eTravel Philippines: the free arrival registration international visitors file before flying in.
How to get to Coron: every way into Coron, including the airport van.

Direct link SafetyWing travel medical insurance

Getting around

Road links run up the main island, and boats or small planes cover the rest.

Puerto Princesa to El Nido: shared van about 5 hours, USD 7.65 to 9.57 as listed on 12Go in USD, or Cherry Bus.
El Nido to Coron: fast ferry 3.5 to 4 hours for PHP 2,600 to 3,784 on operator sites, a 40-minute flight, or a multi-day expedition boat.
Port Barton: a stop between Puerto Princesa and El Nido, with vans from both.
Balabac: Palawan's far south, usually on a 3 to 5 day tour.

Tours

Shared boat tours are the main listed activity in El Nido and Coron. In Puerto Princesa, the Underground River tour needs its own permit.

El Nido island hopping tours: Tours A to D compared.
Coron island tours: Kayangan Lake, Twin Lagoon, Barracuda Lake and the Ultimate tours.
Puerto Princesa Underground River: permits, booking and tour options.
El Nido vs Coron: the two bases side by side.

Money, safety and season

Palawan fees: El Nido's PHP 400 eco-tourism fee, Coron's environmental fee, lake and lagoon fees, and Underground River charges.
Palawan trip cost: what a trip adds up to.
Is Palawan safe?: the UK FCDO's Jul 2026 advice does not list Palawan among the areas it advises against, but it warns about piracy risk in the Sulu and Celebes seas.
Best time to visit Palawan: PAGASA normals put January to April as the driest stretch, with 2 to 5 rainy days a month at Puerto Princesa and Coron.
Where to stay in El Nido: areas compared.

Resort reviews (2019)

Four resort reviews from 2019 remain on the site, unchanged apart from typo fixes. Prices and facilities may have changed since they were written.

For the shorter planner view, see the Palawan trip planner. The 2019 guide's notes on what to see in each area are kept below.

From our 2019 guide: what to see and do in Palawan

These notes on what to see were written for the original 2019 guide and are kept as they were, apart from typo fixes. We have not re-checked them; access, prices and opening times may have changed. For current routes, permits and fees, use the pages linked above.

There are many breathtaking sights to behold in Palawan and an equal number of activities and attractions to keep you busy. The province of Palawan is composed of numerous different islands, characterized by white sand beaches, crystal clear azure waters, and towering cliffs. Many Palawan destinations draw thousands of tourists, beach bums, diving enthusiasts, and nature lovers all year round.

Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park

Puerto Princesa is the capital of Palawan and one of the gateways to the island’s beauty. The city’s most famous tourist attraction is the underground river at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, located around 50 miles north of the city in the town of Sabang. The underground river is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was recognized as one of the New7Wonders of Nature. The river emerges into the sea and features a limestone karst landscape and a full mountain-to-sea ecosystem. It has eight kilometers of underground channels, much of which can be explored. The subterranean cave can be accessed either through a 6-kilometer walk through the rainforest or a 20-minute boat ride which gives you a good view of the karst formations. It is possible to go on your own, but it is far easier and more convenient to join an organized tour. Most of the tours will include pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Puerto Princesa.

Oct 2026 note: the park now caps visits at 900 a day, requires a Visitor Entry Permit, and lists its jungle trail as temporarily closed for renovation. Current details are on Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Honda Bay

Hop on a boat to get to Honda Bay which is 40 minutes away from Puerto Princesa. Apart from seeing several beautiful beaches, you can also swim and snorkel as part of tour packages. Tourists usually visit Starfish Island, Luli Island, and Cowrie Island which are the best places for snorkeling. As the name implies, at Starfish Island you can see many symmetric five-armed orange starfish. Luli Island is another well-known tourist spot which appears during low tide and disappears at high tide. On Cowrie Island, you can see cabanas and spa huts overlooking the sea. It is named after sea snails called “cowrie” that are found in the area. Another famous island in Honda Bay is Pandan Island which is known for its lush tropical forest and white sands. This private island is oval shaped with nipa cottages and stalls. Those who want to tour on this island need to pay an additional fee.

Iwahig Firefly Watching

A cruise along the pristine waters of Iwahig River would be an unforgettable boat ride. But when the sun sets to welcome the night, you will be mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of thousands of fireflies. The river, which is about 45 minutes away from the city proper, is known for its Firefly Watching wherein the fireflies are seemingly staging a light show for you amidst the darkness.

Kamia Bay Resort & Inflatable Adventure Island

Home to Asia’s largest inflatable playground, this laid-back resort has wooden cottages where you can relax and enjoy the view of the beach, but is most well known for its inflatable play area and giant slides. Fun for families and kids of all ages, the inflatable island is worth the 30 to 45 minute trip from Puerto Princesa. If you get tired of playing in the waters and on the inflatable water park, you can also go biking around the island on an Ecological Trail where you will get a chance to see streams, lakes, and animals that roam around the area. You can also take the Mountain Bike Trail which features more exhilarating terrain.

Nagtabon Beach

Once a hidden getaway, Nagtabon Beach has become more famous recently through social media. Often called the best beach in Puerto Princesa, Nagtabon has crystal clear azure water and a smooth white sand beach. Though growing in popularity, Nagtabon Beach can be a welcome escape from the crowds and chaos of other tourist attractions like the Underground River and Honda Bay.

Ugong Rock Adventures

Puerto Princesa isn’t just about the ocean waters, islands, and its natural beauty. Adrenaline junkies can also have a great time in Palawan. Ugong Rock Adventures has many thrilling activities including the bamboo zip-bike, superman zip line, spelunking adventure, zip lining, caving, and more. Ugong Rock is a 75-foot-high limestone rock formation that gets its name from the ‘ugong’ sound it makes when tapped. Aside from all the activities, you can ascend to a viewing deck which offers a gratifying view of karst mountains and lush landscapes.

Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

Formerly known as the Crocodile Farming Institute, the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center is still well known for its crocodile habitats where you can see crocodiles of all sizes including baby crocs and massive adult crocodiles. There are also other animals like wild boar, several bird species, and others. The center is not only a tourist attraction but also a research facility for further studies and conservation of endangered crocodile species. Guided tours are available every 30 minutes.

El Nido

Islands and Lagoons

The key attractions in El Nido are its islands and beaches. Tourists avail themselves of regulated and standardized tour packages which make it easier to visit El Nido’s white sandy beaches and dramatic islands. Tours include visits to Big Lagoon and Hidden Lagoon on Miniloc Island, Payong Payong, Simizu Island, 7 Commando Beach, Snake Island, Entalula Island, Cathedral Cave, Popolkan Island, Matinloc Island, Tapuitan Island, Hidden Beach, Helicopter Island, and others. You just need to choose which tour package you want wherein you can visit particular beaches and islands.

Oct 2026 note: current tour routes, prices and lagoon fees are on El Nido island hopping tours.

Nagkalit-kalit Waterfall

The falls are located between Nacpan Beach and the proper town of El Nido. To get to the falls, you need to take a 20-minute walk through the forest and river crossings. Once you arrive at the falls, you will immediately fall in love with its beauty. It features a big waterfall forming a natural pool which is perfect for swimming and a smaller one below it.

Nacpan Beach

Despite the rough road going to Nacpan Beach, it is still one of the famous beaches in El Nido. This endless stretch of beach is a laid-back destination for tourists who want to enjoy eating seafood from stalls, play volleyball, surf and others. Other beautiful beaches in the area include Verde Safari Beach, Duli Beach, Las Cabañas Beach, Secret Beach, and the famous Twin Beach of Nacpan and Calitang.

Cudugnon Cave

Cudugnon Cave can be reached 30 minutes from Snake Island. It was used by ancient Palawenos as a natural catacomb for their dead loved ones. But tourists can no longer find bones and burial jars here since they were taken by archaeologists. Getting into the cave isn’t easy because you need to crawl into a small rock opening before finally reaching a spacious area that is protected from the sea.

Taram Cliff

Climbing the Taram Cliff will give you a thrilling experience as you trek on its steep rocks. But everything is all worth it once you get to the top and see the most breathtaking view of El Nido. The mountain can also be reached through Ferrata Nature’s Canopy Walk, which is a safer trail for reaching the top.

Coron

Coron Bay

A breathtaking maze of deep blue waters that surrounds the tall limestone cliffs in Coron Bay is indeed a very gorgeous sight. The mountains are covered with trees and bushes while you can see some shipwrecks on the bay serving as an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling. If you get an island tour package you will be guided to the best spots for swimming and viewpoints where you can get a good perspective of Coron Bay.

Kingfisher Park

In Kingfisher Park, you can experience kayaking or paddling sibids (local small boats) in the daytime and firefly watching at night for the Starry-starry Night Tour. This mangrove and bird haven will give you the chance to see specifically endemic plants and animals in Palawan. You can also join the Mount Lunes Santo Trek.

Maquinit Hot Springs

If you want to take a relaxing hot bath at 39 to 40 degrees, visit Maquinit Hot Springs. It is best to have a hot bath at night after you witness the spectacular sunset. This is located along the southern coast of Busuanga Island which is 30 minutes away from the town proper of Coron.

Mt. Tapyas

One of the highest mountains in Coron is Mt. Tapyas where you can get a gorgeous view of the island. To get to the top, you have to climb a set of stairs that stretches 210 meters to the top. But once you see the beauty of Coron below it from the Coron Bay to its islands, you will realize it was really worth the hike!

Twin Lagoons

From a small cave-like opening emerge two small lakes that are created inside limestone cliffs. During low tide, you can see a beautiful limestone archway at its surface allowing you to swim through the lagoon. While swimming, you can experience both warm and cold waters giving you a one-of-a-kind swimming time!

Lakes

There are 13 lakes in Coron but most of them are protected since these are considered sacred by the locals. The Kayangan Lake and Barracuda Lake are open to tourists. Known as the cleanest lake in Asia, Kayangan Lake can be reached through a trek across a steep rainforest. Meanwhile, the Barracuda Lake boasts rapid temperature changes in its waters with bizarre underwater limestone formations.

Oct 2026 note: current lake tours and entrance fees are on Coron island tours.

Wreck Diving Sites

Back on September 24, 1944, the US Navy attacked a Japanese vessel in Coron Bay leaving behind a number of sunken ships. The wreck is now encrusted with corals and sponges which is one of the favorite diving spots around the world. The WWII Japanese Shipwreck in Busuanga Island is one of the famous wreck diving sites. But you don’t need to be an expert diver to see this beauty. You can go to the southern end of Lusong Island where the 25-meter Lusong Gunboat is located allowing you to see the underwater beauty at only 5 to 10 meters deep. Other well-known diving sites include the Kogyo Maru wreck, Okikawa Maru wreck, Akitsushima wreck, Skeleton wreck, Irako wreck, Olympia Maru wreck, and the East Tangat gunboat wreck.

Islands

Coron is also gifted with different islands including the romantic Banana Island, Bulog Island, Black Island or Malajon Island, Malcapuya Island, and more! You will enjoy the white powdery sands and the turquoise waters of these islands.

Beaches

Of course, if there are islands, there are beaches too! Banul Beach is a tourist attraction with white sands. You can also visit the Atwayan Beach, Malcapuya Island Beach, Coron Youth Club Beach, Smith Point Beach, and others!

Other Locations Around Palawan

Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park

This 97,030-hectare Marine Protected Area (MPA) is located 150 km southeast of Puerto Princesa City, at the center of the Coral Triangle. It is composed of the north and south atolls and the Jessie Beazley Reef. The marine park boasts awe-inspiring biodiversity in its underwater terrain. Divers will also get the chance to encounter marine animals like manta rays, turtles, and others.

Balabac

The Balabac group of islands is located in Southern Palawan, which is far from Puerto Princesa. It has around 30 islands and islets wherein most of them are privately owned. Hence, tourists need to make prior arrangements with their owners and local guides. It is known for its unspoiled beaches and unscathed charm. Never miss Candaraman Island, Camiaran Island with pink sand, Punta Sebaring, and many more.

Oct 2026 note: routes, tour formats and current advisories are on Balabac.

Brooke’s Point

In Brooke’s Point, you will find Mount Maruyog or Addison Peak which is 955 meters above sea level, sulfuric hot spring in Mainit Falls, Mt. Maruyog Farm and Garden Resort, Palm View Resort, Sabsaban Waterfalls, and many more!

Port Barton

If you want to avoid the crowd, then Port Barton is a nice place to go. It is the perfect place for people who want to have a relaxing getaway. You can join tours to the Exotic Island, German Island, Fantastic Reef, Paradise Island, Aquarium Reef, and other beautiful places. Aside from island-hopping through beaches, you can also snorkel above turtles and kayak to nearby islets.

Oct 2026 note: vans, tours and fees are on Port Barton.

Taytay

The municipality of Taytay, which is Palawan’s “Star of the North,” is rich in culture and history. This old Spanish town is known for its famous relic, Fort Santa Isabel that sits in the town’s seascape. Tourists can do island-hopping, snorkeling, Irrawaddy Dolphin watching in Malampaya Sound, kayaking on Lake Manguao, and swimming in Canique Waterfall.

Last checked Oct 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page; tell us if an operator has changed a fare or schedule.

FAQs

Is there a ferry going to Palawan?

Yes. 2GO's schedule lists two Friday 5:30 PM departures from Manila: one to Coron, arriving 6:30 AM Saturday, and one to Puerto Princesa, arriving 10:30 PM Saturday.

Can you fly directly into El Nido?

Yes, from Clark and Cebu on Cebgo, but not from Manila's NAIA since Mar 29, 2026. The alternative is a Manila flight to Puerto Princesa and a van of about 5 hours.

How do you get from Manila to El Nido?

Either fly from Clark to El Nido on Cebgo, or fly NAIA to Puerto Princesa and take a shared van north. The van leg was listed at USD 7.65 to 9.57 on 12Go in USD.

How many days in Palawan is enough?

We found no official guidance, so it depends on the bases chosen. Each move between Puerto Princesa, El Nido and Coron takes about 5 hours by van or 3.5 to 4 hours by ferry.

When is the best time to visit Palawan?

PAGASA's dry season runs December to May, and its 1991 to 2020 normals show January to April as the driest months. The rainy season, June to November, brings more boat cancellations.